The Antigravity Machine

Ask students what they think an "antigravity machine" would do ("something that helps you work against gravity"). Tell them that you are going to show them an antigravity machine for the day’s activity.

Subject: Science; Mathematics; Problem Solving
Topics:
- The Nature of Science (Experimentation)
- Physics
- Geometry (circles)
- Statistics (Charts and Graphs)
- Use a Chart or Table
Grades: 5 - 8
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can present experimental results clearly in written form.
- Is familiar with the "simple machines" and knows that they can reduce the amount of effort necessary to move or lift something.
- Can represent and interpret numerical data in chart and graph form

Download Activity: The Antigravity Machine (PDF)

Science & Technology Movie:

Maglev TrainsMaglev Trains

Gliding on a wave of electromagnetic force, a maglev train could travel at 300 miles per hour or faster. Designer-engineers describe the mechanics and future benefits of such superconductor trains.
Running time 4:12 minutes.

Watch the Movie